"'Tis Sixty Years Since" Address of Charles Francis Adams; Founders' Day, January 16, 1913

"'Tis Sixty Years Since" by Charles Francis Adams is a reflective speech given in 1913 that investigates the shifts in society, politics, and learning through time. The narrative centers on the transformation of American society and ideals, exploring how significant events like the Civil War and the end of slavery have molded modern American beliefs and character. Adams draws on his own experiences, comparing his youthful hopes from when he started at Harvard in 1853 with the realities of his present. He talks about important issues like slavery, states' rights, and the growth of industry, showing how they've caused major social and political changes and reflecting on what his generation chose and on the unforeseen development of race relations and political ideas in the U.S. Adams underscores the significance of education and mindful leadership, advocating for a fresh look at political methods to better handle today's problems, thus emphasizing universities' impact in developing well-informed citizens.